Jimmy Kimmel Bandleader Cleto Escobedo Dies at 59 After Liver Transplant

Cleto Escobedo III, the longtime bandleader for “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”, has died. He was 59 years old. Escobedo passed away from complications following a recent liver transplant.

He was Jimmy Kimmel’s childhood best friend and led the show’s house band, Cleto and the Cletones, for 22 years. His death marks a profound loss for the late-night television community and music industry.

A Friendship That Defined a Television Era

Cleto Escobedo and Jimmy Kimmel met as nine-year-olds in Las Vegas. Their friendship spanned five decades, from childhood to professional partnership. Kimmel personally insisted on hiring Escobedo when his late-night show launched in 2003.

According to The New York Times, Kimmel often described their connection as inseparable. He wanted someone with natural chemistry to lead the musical segments. Their bond became a cornerstone of the show’s authentic atmosphere.

Escobedo was more than just an employee. He was Kimmel’s confidant and creative partner. This unique relationship between host and bandleader was rare in television history.

The Musical Legacy Behind the Laughter

Before his television career, Escobedo established himself as a professional saxophonist. He toured with major artists including Earth, Wind & Fire’s Phillip Bailey and pop star Paula Abdul. His musical credentials were impressive and well-respected.

Escobedo recorded with numerous acclaimed musicians throughout his career. He worked with Marc Anthony and the vocal group Take Six. His versatility on multiple saxophones made him highly sought after.

On “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”, he co-created the show’s iconic theme music. He and his band provided the musical backdrop for countless celebrity interviews and comedy sketches. Their sound became synonymous with the program itself.

A Public Grieving Process Begins

Jimmy Kimmel addressed his friend’s passing during his November 12th monologue. He delivered an emotional tribute that moved audience members and viewers. The raw display of grief highlighted their deep personal connection.

Kimmel also shared his feelings on Instagram shortly after the news broke. He described the loss as beyond heartbreak. The television host emphasized how fortunate they felt to work together daily.

The show cancelled its November 11th episode due to what ABC termed a “personal matter.” This occurred just before Escobedo’s passing was announced publicly. The network has yet to announce plans for the band’s future.

Family Man and Professional Musician

In a 2022 interview, Escobedo explained why the stable television job suited him perfectly. He noted that touring was more suitable for younger musicians without family commitments. The “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” position allowed him to balance career and family life.

He is survived by his wife Lori, their two children, and his father Cleto Escobedo Jr. His father also performed in the house band for nearly twenty years. The musical legacy truly spanned generations.

Escobedo valued his role as husband and father above his professional accomplishments. Colleagues frequently noted how he prioritized family time despite his demanding schedule. This balance defined his approach to life and career.

The death of Cleto Escobedo represents more than the loss of a talented musician. It marks the end of an extraordinary partnership that brought music and laughter to millions. His legacy as Jimmy Kimmel’s bandleader will endure through decades of memorable television moments.

Thought you’d like to know

How did Cleto Escobedo die?

He died from complications following a liver transplant. The procedure was recent, though specific medical details remain private. His passing was confirmed by multiple news outlets.

How long was Cleto Escobedo the bandleader on Jimmy Kimmel?

He served as bandleader for 22 consecutive years. His tenure began when the show premiered in January 2003. He never missed a musical director credit throughout the program’s entire run.

Who were Cleto Escobedo’s famous musical collaborators?

He toured with Earth, Wind & Fire’s Phillip Bailey and pop artist Paula Abdul. He also recorded with Marc Anthony and the acclaimed group Take Six. His session work included numerous other respected musicians.

What will happen to the band on Jimmy Kimmel Live?

ABC has not yet announced plans for the show’s musical future. The network cancelled one episode following his hospitalization. Industry observers expect an announcement in the coming weeks.

Did Cleto Escobedo have family in the music business?

His father, Cleto Escobedo Jr., played saxophone in the house band for nearly two decades. The father-son duo performed together regularly on the program. Music clearly ran deeply through their family.